Hello,


It's Sam from SB Creatives Photography here...


There are moments in community life that feel bigger than the event itself. Moments that carry weight, emotion and a shared sense of purpose. Havdallah B’Yachad for The Shabbat Project was one of those moments.


As a photographer, I’m usually focused on the technical side — lighting, composition, expressions, movement. But from the moment the candles were lit and the melodies began, it was clear this was not just another event to document. It was a gathering of hearts, voices and stories.


The evening welcomed Omer Shem Tov, who was held in captivity for 505 days. His presence alone shifted the atmosphere. There was a quiet strength in the room — a reminder of the resilience and spirit our people carry, even through the deepest challenges. When he spoke, there was no distance between him and the community. Everyone leaned in. Everyone listened. Everyone felt it.


The blessing over the wine, the spices passed from hand to hand, and the flame held high for Havdallah carried layers of meaning. The separation between Shabbat and the week ahead was marked not only with tradition, but with a renewed sense of unity. We weren’t simply marking time — we were affirming who we are as a people.


Throughout the evening, I watched as families embraced, friends reconnected, and strangers stood side-by-side, singing “Am Yisrael Chai” with full voice. The hope was tangible. The pride was real.


Photographing this event wasn’t just about capturing moments — it was about honouring them. Preserving expressions of strength, compassion, and shared identity. Moments like these remind me why I do what I do: to tell stories of community, resilience and light — especially in times when the world feels heavy.

As we step into the week ahead, may we carry the warmth of the flame, the memory of standing together, and the message that continues to guide us:

Am Yisrael Chai.



The Jewish people live. And we live together.

A group of people in casual attire pose together at a social gathering with blue lighting in the background.
People dancing and socializing at a party with blue lighting in the background.
Three young friends pose together at a dance or social event in a wood-floored venue with warm lighting.
People dancing together on a wooden dance floor at an indoor social gathering or party event.
People dancing and celebrating at a wedding reception in formal attire with white shirts and suspenders.
A group poses together in casual attire against a plain wall in what appears to be a dance or event space.
A group of people dancing together in a large indoor space during what appears to be a celebration or party.
People dancing and socializing at a nightclub or party venue with purple lighting in the background.
A person in white clothing performs martial arts moves in a large studio space with wooden floors.
A collage of friends enjoying a celebration together in formal attire at an indoor venue.
Crowd of people celebrating and cheering enthusiastically in an indoor venue with basketball hoop visible in background.
A person in a gray t-shirt operates a glass coffee brewing setup with multiple glass vessels and filters.
People raise their hands during what appears to be an interactive group activity or workshop session.
A group of people practicing dance moves together in a mirrored studio with hardwood floors.
A group of Orthodox Jewish men in traditional black suits and beards smile while gathered at a social event.